The world of pinball is leveling up, thanks to a new collaboration between Stern Pinball and The Pokémon Company International. A brand-new Pokémon pinball machine was released on February 12, 2026, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of the beloved franchise, offering fans a nostalgic and interactive experience. The machines, available in “pro,” “premium,” and limited edition models, aim to capture the thrill of becoming a top Pokémon Trainer in a uniquely silverball-driven way. This new release marks a significant moment for both pinball enthusiasts and Pokémon fans alike.
Stern Pinball, the world’s largest manufacturer of pinball games, has integrated its SPIKE 3 technology into the Pokémon machine, bringing the iconic world of Pokémon to life through dynamic gameplay. Players will navigate through four distinct habitats – forest, water, mountain, and desert – strategically hitting targets to discover, catch, and train Pokémon. The game isn’t just about racking up points; it’s about building a team and completing a Pokémon Collection. The machines range in price from $6,999 to $12,999, with the limited edition run capped at just 750 units globally, making it a highly sought-after collector’s item, as Nintendo Life reports.
A Journey Through the Pokémon World
The gameplay experience is designed to mirror the core elements of the Pokémon journey. Players will use a mechanically animated Poké Ball to catch Pokémon, and the playfield features Pokémon-themed ramps, spinners, and targets. An animatronic Pikachu adds to the immersive experience, reacting to the player’s progress and offering encouragement. But the adventure doesn’t stop at catching Pokémon. Players will also face off against rival trainers and contend with the nefarious Team Rocket, led by Giovanni, in dynamic battle sequences. The premium and limited edition models seize the intensity up a notch with an interactive electromagnet that introduces an element of “chaos” to the battle arena.
As detailed in the official announcement, players can engage in exhilarating multiball sequences to thwart Team Rocket’s attempts to capture Pokémon. Successfully completing objectives and earning enough points unlocks Gym Battles against rival Pokémon trainers. Mastering each biome ultimately leads to the Pokémon Arena, where the ultimate challenge awaits: a showdown with Giovanni. The game also incorporates video clips from the original animated series, including the iconic theme song, adding another layer of nostalgia for longtime fans.
Tracking Your Progress with Stern’s Insider Connected App
Stern Pinball is enhancing the Pokémon pinball experience with its Insider Connected app. Players can log in with their accounts to track the Pokémon they catch across different machines, creating a personalized collection and fostering a sense of community. This feature allows trainers to view their Pokémon collections and share their progress with others, adding a social dimension to the gameplay. The app provides a way to document and celebrate achievements within the game, further engaging players in the Pokémon universe.
Availability and Pricing
The Pokémon by Stern Pinball machine is available now in three models, each offering a unique experience and price point. The Pro model is priced at $6,999, the Premium model at $9,699, and the Limited Edition model, with its exclusive features and limited production run, is available for $12,999. Interested buyers, particularly businesses, can contact Stern Pinball directly through its website for availability and further details. The limited edition run of 750 units ensures exclusivity for serious collectors and dedicated fans.
This release isn’t just a new pinball machine; it’s a celebration of 30 years of Pokémon, blending the classic appeal of pinball with the enduring popularity of the Pokémon franchise. The interactive features, strategic gameplay, and social connectivity offered through the Insider Connected app create a compelling experience for both casual players and dedicated collectors. The Pokémon pinball machine represents a unique intersection of two beloved forms of entertainment.
Stern Pinball will continue to support the game with software updates and community events, ensuring a dynamic and evolving experience for players. The next step for those interested in acquiring a machine is to contact Stern Pinball directly to inquire about availability and lead times. For more information about the Pokémon pinball machine and other Stern Pinball products, visit the Stern Pinball website.
What do you think of the new Pokémon pinball machine? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
